Lake Constance

One of my favorite destinations in The Black Forest is the Lake Constance (the Bodensee in German). The largest lake in Germany has a special charm and is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the region. Its small villages and islands offer plenty of entertainments and leisure activities. They all bring unique atmosphere, idyllic bays and romantic restaurants with lake views.

Especially attractive is the city of Konstanz. This cosmopolitan city with glorious past and traditions has its own cultural profile and is famous with its university.

We reach the harbor and get fascinated by the lively atmosphere. Here plenty of tourists enjoying warm summer days in beer gardens or trying excellent culinary delights in the local restaurants.

 

Several ferries and ships provide access to the most remote areas across the lake and are a preferred tourist attraction. Standing directly on the shores of Lake Constance the Statue Imperia satirically reminds the Council of Constance. It represents a courtesan who carries on her raised hands the emperor with the crown and the pope with a tiara.

 

The council building located at the shores of the lake is considered to be the largest preserved medieval building in southern Germany. Here the cardinals have been enclosed and spent the conclave in 1417. They have elected Martin V as a pope. Since 1912 the building is used as a restaurant, banquet hall and convention center.

Walking through the city center we encounter many traces of the past city prosperity. The old town of Konstanz has a traditional medieval atmosphere which has remained unchanged during centuries. 

 

Here is the house where in 1415 Jan Hus has been imprisoned because of his believes. The council has condemned him as a heretic, sentenced him to death and burnt him alive.

A stroll through the old town brings us to the Marktplatz where nice coffee shops are a favorite place for quick refreshment.

Very interesting spot is the Rhine River which starts in the Swiss Alps, passes through Lake Constance and leaves it at Konstanz.

The unique location of the city on Lake Constance and the Rhine, its proximity to Switzerland and Austria, make Konstanz an ideal holiday destination and starting point for excursions in the surrounding area.